Canadian Soldier Dies in Latvia: Father's Heartbreak and Hope for Military Service
Gunner Sebastian Halmagean, a 24-year-old member of the Canadian Armed Forces from Hamilton, Ontario, died on January 29, 2026, while deployed on Operation Reassurance near Riga, Latvia. His death, which occurred just weeks into his first overseas tour, has left his family and community devastated, but his father is determined to turn the tragedy into a message of inspiration for others considering military service.
A Life of Service Cut Short
Sebastian Halmagean, affectionately known as "Seb," had proudly served in the Canadian Armed Forces for three years. Born on Christmas Day, he had recently celebrated his 24th birthday before his untimely death. According to his father, Alin Halmagean, Sebastian loved being a soldier and had dreamed of serving his country since childhood. He was a member of the Royal Canadian Artillery, based at 5th Canadian Division Support Base Gagetown in Oromocto, New Brunswick, and was deployed as part of the Canadian-led NATO Multinational Brigade Latvia.
Alin Halmagean, speaking to the Toronto Sun through tears, emphasized that the details of how his son died—currently under investigation by Latvian Military Police with support from Canadian Forces Military Police—are less important than honoring Sebastian's legacy. "It doesn't matter how he died—he's gone and nothing can bring him back," Alin said. "What matters is that his story doesn't deter people from military service. My son wouldn't want that."
A Father's Plea for Courage and Service
Despite his profound grief, Alin Halmagean remains steadfast in his belief that serving one's country is a noble pursuit. He described his son as brave and without regrets about joining the military, and he hopes Sebastian's story will encourage others to follow in his footsteps. "Too many people in our society live in fear these days—don't be scared, be brave," Alin urged. "My son was so brave, and he had no regrets. I strongly encourage people to join the Canadian Forces. It's a great career."
Sebastian's military journey included basic training, artillery school, and postings that showcased his dedication. In 2025, he was deployed to help battle wildfires in Newfoundland and Labrador, an experience his father said filled him with pride for assisting fellow Canadians. His deployment to Latvia was part of Operation Reassurance, the Canadian Armed Forces' largest overseas mission, aimed at bolstering NATO's presence in Eastern Europe.
Community and Political Responses
The loss has resonated deeply within the Hamilton community and beyond. Alin Halmagean is well-known as a trainer at House of Champions gym in Stoney Creek and a promoter of combat sports, and many have watched Sebastian grow from a boy into a dedicated soldier. Prime Minister Mark Carney expressed his condolences on social media, stating, "Our country is stronger for his service." Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre also called Alin to offer support and sympathy.
Sebastian is survived by his parents, Alin and Lilly, and his girlfriend, Madison, in New Brunswick. He had plans to buy a house upon returning from Latvia, highlighting his commitment to both his career and personal life. The Department of National Defence has not released details about the investigation, only noting that there is no increased threat to deployed members.
Legacy and Repatriation
Gunner Halmagean's body is scheduled to be repatriated to Canada this week, with a procession along the Highway of Heroes from CFB Trenton expected on Tuesday. Funeral arrangements are pending, but his father's focus remains on ensuring his son's memory inspires future generations. "I've been thinking about myself at 24 and what I was doing then," Alin reflected. "I was actually 24 when he was born. He was my best friend, and I'm never going to see him again—but I'm so proud of him."
This tragic event underscores the risks and sacrifices inherent in military service, yet through his father's words, Sebastian Halmagean's story becomes a powerful call to honor and continue the tradition of serving Canada with courage and pride.
